Winning and learning: How a culture of continuous education can address workforce challenges

By Jenny Yu.  

The Malco Group highlights training and mentorship as essential to addressing the industry's labor shortage. 

Nobody in the industry gets to where they are alone, and with an ongoing labor shortage, participating in hands-on mentorship and training programs are more important than ever. In a recent episode of MetalCast™, Karen Edwards sat down with Jon Olson, MetalCoffeeShop® Influencer and learning and product training manager for The Malco Group, to discuss how training, mentorship and industry involvement can help bridge the talent gap. 

According to Jon, the challenge facing the trades is twofold: an aging workforce and fewer young people entering the industry with hands-on experience. “The industry is facing a major generational transition,” Jon stated. “Too many people are retiring for the number of people coming in.” 

To help address that challenge, Malco has invested heavily in workforce development initiatives. Through programs such as their Head of the Class Student Recognition Program, as well as partnerships with organizations like SkillsUSA and Building Talent Foundation, the company works to introduce students and aspiring trade professionals to rewarding careers in the skilled trades. “Training, in many ways, is the industry solution to try and bridge that gap between, ‘I'm just starting out,’ and ‘I'm a productive addition to the team,’” Jon explained. 

Beyond formal training, Jon emphasized the importance of mentorship and creating a culture of continuous learning, not only for those new to the industry but for everyone. He encourages contractors to adopt a mindset of “winning and learning,” where every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth.  

“Training doesn't need to be over-structured,” Jon said. “You need to embrace each opportunity you have through continuous improvement and other means to really allow people to learn in their own way.” 

As labor challenges continue across the construction sector, Jon believes contractors who embrace this type of culture while prioritizing training, mentorship and professional development will be best positioned to build stronger teams and long-term success. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about workforce development, training and Malco's impact on the overall future of the skilled trades.